Flyin’ High

Sikorsky S-76C++

Commuting is a bitch. Think of how much easier your life would be if you could simply fly to work. Or if you could beat the weekend traffic and take your helicopter straight to the mountains.

When a true baller is looking for the best way to cut his commute, leaving early or postponing his arrival is not an option. Instead, he turns to one of two options: Sikorsky or Bell.

Sikorsy and Bell are two companies known for manufacturing the highest quality civilian and military helicopters. To help you decide which manufacturer might be more your style, we’ve pitted Sikorsky’s S-76 C++ Executive Transport Helicopter up against Bell’s comparable 430 Corporate model. The results were too close to call. So we’re leaving the decision up to you.

Note: if a helicopter’s not quite your style, but you still like the thought of flying, we’ve got a surprise for you that you won’t want to miss. Hint: it’s not a plane either.

Sikorsky S-76C++ (Executive Transport Helicopter)

Combining modern technology long-range engines and the luxury of an exclusive Silencer™ ultra-comfort interior, the Sikorsky S-76C++ is the top choice of many executives and dignitaries. The speed, range, flexibility, and customized options of this helicopter make it one of the world’s premier VIP helicopters.

Projected Performance:

• Max speed (VNE): 155 kts, 287 km/hr
• Max gross weight: 11,700 lb, 5,306 kg
• Range (with 30 minute reserve): 345 nm, 639 km
• Useful load (utility configuration): 4,695 lb 2,129 kg

Amenities:

• Sikorsky raises the bar with their customization options. With a variety of interior configurations seating anywhere from 5-8 persons, owners can customize fabrics, colors, their bar, woodwork and trim, and other amenities.

Bell 430 (Corporate)

Aesthetics and power have their appeal. This twin-engine helicopter is enhanced by a sculpted glass cockpit for visibility, cutting-edge avionics for intuitive control, and a revolutionary bearingless rotor for a smooth ride. Superior comfort in an open, roomy and quiet cabin make for the ultimate quality ride.

Projected Performance:

• Max gross weight: 9,300 lbs, 4,218 kg
• Max speed (VNE): 150 kts, 278 km/hr
• Range: 353 nm, 654 km
• Useful load: 3,964 lbs, 1,800 kg

Amenities:

• Hand-stitched leather seating
• Limousine privacy windows
• Infrared sound system

Not quite feeling the helicopter set up? If these two birds didn’t do it for you, here’s the flying machine that will:

The BA609: The World’s First Civilian Tiltrotor

The product of a joint venture between Bell Helicopter and AgustaWestland, the Tiltrotor combines the speed, altitude, and comfort of a turboprop with the vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of a helicopter. Having cruising capabilities of 25,000 ft., this versatile aircraft will fly in both arctic conditions and desert climates. With seating for up to nine passengers, the BA609 is designed to take you anywhere from 50 to 500 miles in half the time and twice the style.

Projected performance:

• Max Cruise Speed: 275 kts, 509 km/hr
• Range (no reserve): 1,000 nm, 1,852 km

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Tags: BA609, Bell, Bell 430, helicopters, Sikorsky, Sikorsky S-76, Tiltrotor

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